Sailing is the process of controlling a boat using very large fabric foils called sails. The sailor changes the steering wheel, rigging and the central board, which sailors can be able to force winds on the sails so and change the direction in which the boat is moving, and also the speed. Important things you need to know when learning sailing are:

Types of boats

Types of boats are classified according to the shape and number of sails, the number of masts and their location. Rigs are different combinations of sails and masts. Rigs consist of the mast, boom, stays, and sails. Types of single rigs are: sloop, boat Catboat, Sunfish or Lateen, and catamaran. Single rigs have only one mast. The divided rigs have two or more masts, and the types are yawl, schooners, and ketch.

Points of Sail

When you learn to sail, one crucial aspect is the point of the sail. A sailing point is a connection between the directions of the wind and where your boat is. Different points of the sail – this is when the wind goes ahead or is beaten, the wind from the side or reaches and the wind from the stern or run.
Maneuvering a boat in the other direction can be difficult, and this requires a lot of practice. There are two basic maneuvers. They are the come about and the jibe. Come about is maneuvering your boat in the reverse direction. This is done when you start your boat or when docking. Reversing the boat can be difficult, especially for novice sailors. A faster way to turn your boat is to jibe. This is faster because the rear of the boat is set across the wind.

Sailing Rules

A sailing boat should follow the laws of the sea. These rules are designed for different traffic situations. See the speed limits on local waterways to avoid possible collision with another boat. It is essential to acquaint and follow these rules for safe sailing. It is for this reason that the safety of the boat is a fundamental aspect in learning to sail: to know what to do if there is a possible situation in the boat or water, for example, the risk of collision and ways to avoid it.

Anchoring a boat

One of the fundamental skills of sailing is anchoring a boat. It requires practice to master this skill. Besides, boat safety is essential not only for your boat but also for other boats. Each crew must know their role in securing the boat.

Marine flags

Flags and windshields are good wind direction indicators. Flags are also used for communication with other boats. An international code of signals that can be executed using flags is created to communicate with other boats during tranquility and distress situations. Flags have individual values or can be combined to form a message and transferred to other boats. Hand signs can be of great help when you give directions and do not shout because they cannot be heard amidst roaring of the engines of other boats. You also need to consider how different boats are tied nearby.

Sailing Safety

Finally, learn how to swim. If you do not know how to swim, always bring or wear a life jacket. Always be with someone who also knows how to sail or someone more experienced in sailing. Getting the weather forecast for the week that you plan to sail is the safest way to prepare your voyage and always listen to the weather prediction when you are at sea.